EKSU Don Says Mathematics Is Key to Solving Nigeria’s Development Challenges

A Professor of Industrial Mathematics at Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, Professor Michael Oke, has identified mathematics as a critical tool for addressing Nigeria's real-life challenges, stating that mathematical concepts and optimization techniques are essential for solving problems in sectors such as electricity, healthcare, transportation, engineering, and governance.

Speaking at the University's 107th inaugural lecture titled, "Seeking the Best Way in Solving Real-Life Problems Using Mathematical Concepts: The Beauty of Optimal Techniques," Professor Oke described mathematics as more than an abstract academic discipline, saying it is the language of science and technology with practical applications across virtually every field of human endeavour.

He explained that industrial mathematics bridges the gap between theoretical mathematical concepts and practical solutions in engineering, manufacturing, finance, logistics, medicine, and management sciences, enabling governments and industries to make informed decisions while maximizing available resources.

According to the professor, optimization involves achieving the best possible outcome under existing conditions by minimizing costs, reducing losses, and maximizing efficiency.

"Mathematics is a practical subject best learnt by doing. Every individual, knowingly or unknowingly, applies mathematical reasoning in daily activities and decision-making," he said.

Highlighting findings from years of research, Oke revealed that he developed empirical mathematical models for analysing power losses along electricity transmission lines. Using regression analysis, he established that transmission losses increase with distance.

He explained that the models, developed using Kirchhoff's Circuit Laws and solved through advanced mathematical techniques, could assist the government in reducing losses across electricity transmission and distribution networks, improving power supply, and restoring investor confidence in Nigeria's economy.

The professor also demonstrated how mathematical modelling can be applied in road engineering by calculating the surface area and volume of potholes on Nigerian roads using surface and volume integrals.

In the health sector, he noted that optimization techniques have been successfully applied to a Susceptible-Vaccinated-Infected-Recovered (SVIR) epidemic model to identify effective disease-control strategies.

He further highlighted the use of optimization models in transportation and management sciences, where mathematical techniques help determine the most efficient and cost-effective routes for vehicle fleets, reducing operational costs and improving service delivery.

Oke also presented research findings in fluid dynamics, explaining how magnetic fields and thermal radiation influence fluid flow under industrial conditions, with significant implications for engineering and manufacturing processes.

The mathematics scholar urged governments at all levels to increase investment in mathematics education and research, stressing that sustainable national development cannot be achieved without science, technology, and innovation.

Among his recommendations, he advocated the introduction of Industrial Mathematics as an undergraduate programme in Nigerian universities to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial applications.

He also called for the establishment of postgraduate programmes in Mathematics for Industry, scholarships for outstanding mathematics students, and the provision of modern mathematics laboratories equipped with contemporary hardware and software.

Professor Oke further proposed that aspiring political office holders should possess at least a credit pass in Mathematics at the Senior School Certificate level, arguing that mathematical reasoning strengthens analytical thinking and enhances decision-making in governance.

He maintained that mathematics remains the foundation of scientific advancement and technological innovation, adding that Nigeria's pursuit of sustainable development will largely depend on its ability to apply mathematical knowledge to solving real-life problems.